Acute non-traumatic subdural hematoma induced by intracranial aneurysm rupture: A case report and systematic review of the literature

RATIONALE: Intracranial aneurysm with the first manifestation of acute subdural hematoma (aSDH) is rare in the field of neurosurgery. Usually subarachnoid hemorrhage or intracranial hematoma happens after the rupture of an intracranial aneurysm, whereas trauma is the primary cause of aSDH. PATIENT CONCERNS: Here, we present the case of a 71-year-old woman who presented with spontaneous aSDH with progressive headache and vomiting. DIAGNOSIS: Urgent head computed tomography (CT) identified an aSHD, but the patient had no history of trauma. CT angiography (CTA) identified the cause of the aSDH as rupture of an intracranial aneurysm in the left middle cerebral artery. INTERVENTIONS: Emergent craniotomy with hematoma evacuation was performed. OUTCOMES: Due to prompt diagnosis and appropriate intervention, the patient recovered fully with no disability. LESSONS: This unique case demonstrates that aSDH caused by intracranial aneurysm rupture requires timely identification and appropriate action to prevent adverse outcomes. We performed a comprehensive systematic literature review to examine the etiology and pathogenesis of non-traumatic aSDH. Furthermore, digital subtraction angiography should be considered in patients diagnosed with an aSDH with no known cause.